The Muharram moon sighting in Pakistan will be closely observed on June 15 as the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee prepares to meet in Lahore to determine the start of the Islamic month of Muharram ul Haram.
Officials have scheduled the meeting at the historic Badshahi Mosque, where religious scholars and committee members will review moon sighting reports from across the country. The decision will help determine the beginning of the Islamic new year and key religious observances, including Ashura.
Maulana Abdul Khabeer Azad will chair the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee. Zonal committees across Pakistan will also hold parallel meetings in their respective regions to collect local testimonies regarding the crescent sighting.
Astronomers consider the chances of sighting the Muharram crescent on the evening of June 15 to be low. Scientific calculations suggest that Muharram 1448 Hijri will likely begin on June 17, while Youm-e-Ashura will likely fall on June 26.
The committee will review all evidence submitted from different parts of the country before making a final announcement. The central and zonal bodies will share the official confirmation with the public after reaching a consensus.
The Muharram moon sighting process holds significant importance in Pakistan, as it determines the start of one of the most sacred months in the Islamic calendar. Authorities use this announcement to schedule large gatherings, religious events, and public holidays.
Authorities will coordinate with meteorological experts, religious scholars, and local observers to ensure a transparent moon sighting process.
As the date approaches, citizens across the country are closely watching the outcome, which will mark the beginning of the new Islamic year.
